School officials in Hancock continue to work out the details of a 2013 expansion and remodeling project. Superintendent Jerry Martinson says the school board will be opening bonding proposals on Monday, February 25. The bond sales will finance the construction project, with a voter-approved referendum to pay back the bonds over the next 20 years. Hancock residents approved the $5.4 million bond sale on December 18 by an overwhelming majority.

The projected tax increase on Hancock School District properties is $3 per acre for agriculture land and an estimated $50 per year on residential property.

Martinson says the renovation will include adding on to the existing high school, with six new classrooms. Three classrooms will be used by high school students and three by elementary students. The existing building will also see renovation. A redesigned interior will expand current classroom sizes and update the school’s computer lab and science lab.

The school board plans to begin work on the expansion in March, without disruption to students. A complete renovation of the existing building is planned for the summer with a hoped for September 1, 2013 completion.